评论

Divorce of Heaven and Hell

C.S. Lewis provides keen insight into the eternal life destination decisions we all make. This is viewed through a dream where inhabitants of hell are taken on "field trips" to heaven. There they meet inhabitants of heaven who try to convince them to stay.At first it is shocking that anyone would prefer...再读一些...

C.S. Lewis provides keen insight into the eternal life destination decisions we all make. This is viewed through a dream where inhabitants of hell are taken on "field trips" to heaven. There they meet inhabitants of heaven who try to convince them to stay.At first it is shocking that anyone would prefer the "features" of hell rather than the beauty of heaven. Yet, as one reads Lewis' insight on human nature it can be easily discerned that this decision is not made in the future but everyday in our own terrestial existence. His analysis of human character and rationalization is profound and is sobering.My favorite quote had to do with the discussion that those in hell would make those in heaven sad by their disposition thinking that the heavenly creatures should not be happy if there were those who were unhappy. That is, if there is misery it should be spread throughout. Yet, Lewis points out that joy must overrule misery, not the other way around. The quote comes from Lewis' heavenly guide, George MacDonald: "then the dog in a manger becomes the tyrant of the universe".A good read. There are some deep parts that are difficult to get through but overall worth the effort.

Worth Reading Again

I was introduced to this book in my late teens and for many years I read it at least once a year. It was a touchstone to return to after each major life change. The picture of heaven as a place where one endlessly journeys 'further up and further in' remains close to my heart.